The Irish Prison Service has confirmed that a suspicious item found at Mountjoy Prison is not part of a weapon - as was initially suspected.

The discovery was made on the C wing of Mountjoy Prison at approximately 12.30pm today.

Following an initial examination - by prison staff and Gardaí - it was suspected that the item may be part of a firearm containing a number of bullets.

The item was removed for forensic examination and a search of the prison was carried out.

In a statement, the Prison Service says Gardaí have confirmed the item is not part of a weapon.